From suitcase tourists to carry-on parents
We, Frank and Fabienne, have been traveling the world together as a couple since 2008. Back then, we still had suitcases and no child.
Together, we have traveled to various places in Europe, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, North America, and Hawaii.
Since our daughter was born in 2019, we have been traveling together as a family. Today, we mostly travel without suitcases and with a child!
As a family, we have experienced trips within Europe, Africa, Asia, Iceland, and North America.
Handgepäckfamilie
Together we are the “Handgepäckfamilie” (Carry-on Family) – a family that loves traveling light and individual travel. Our passion is discovering new places and cultures, and we want to motivate other parents to take plane trips with their children.
For us, traveling light is the main focus. We have realized that it is liberating to forego unnecessary baggage and instead only take the essentials. This gives us more flexibility and allows us to concentrate on experiencing and enjoying, instead of worrying about bulky luggage.
As parents, we know that traveling with children is a unique experience. We discover the world with new eyes, through the perspective of our children. Every trip becomes an adventure where we get to know new cultures, explore exciting sights, and create unforgettable memories together.
Our goal is to encourage other parents to discover the world with their children. We want to show them that plane trips with children are definitely feasible and enriching. With our experiences and tips, we want to help them plan their trips and master the challenges that come with traveling with children.
By seeing the world through children’s eyes, we open ourselves to new perspectives and learn to appreciate the little wonders of life. Our children are our best travel companions because they make us discover the world in a very special way.
Be part of the “Handgepäckfamilie” (Carry-on Family) and join us on our travel adventures. Together, we want to encourage parents to explore the world with their children, discover new horizons, and create unforgettable memories. Let’s rediscover the world with children’s eyes and experience the magic of traveling together.
About our family
Fabienne: the travel mom and travel manager
My name is Fabienne and I am in my mid-30s. I come from the beautiful Ruhr area in Germany. One of my great passions is planning trips in detail and exploring foreign countries.
That’s why I’m also known as the family’s travel manager. Even as a child, I dreamed of discovering the world and getting to know new cultures.
This fascination for the unknown and the curiosity about other places and people accompany me to this day. I find it exciting to immerse myself in foreign cultures, try exotic dishes, and explore breathtaking landscapes.
As a passionate travel planner, I have learned over the years to prepare trips down to the smallest detail in order to create unforgettable experiences. From researching the best sights and insider tips to organizing accommodation and transport – I love planning everything down to the smallest detail to get the most out of every trip.
Whether it’s an exciting city trip or an adventurous trip into nature, I’m always ready to take on new challenges and be enchanted by the beauty of our world. Traveling broadens my horizons, opens up new perspectives, and leaves unforgettable memories.
In winter, you can often find me on the ski slopes and in summer windsurfing or snorkeling in the sea.
With my enthusiasm for traveling and my passion for planning, I want to inspire other people and help them realize their own travel adventures. Because I am firmly convinced that exploring the world makes us better and more cosmopolitan people.
Emily: the travel girl
My name is Emily and I am a proud 6 years old. Since I was just 10 weeks old, I have been accompanying my family on their travels. I am, so to speak, the travel child of the family and discover the world with great enthusiasm.
I prefer to dig in the biggest sandbox, the beach. I am often wary of the sea, so you are more likely to find me at the pool.
Plane trips always fascinate me. When we’re sitting on a plane, I often wonder how quickly time flies. Before I really realize it, we have already landed safely on the ground again. The view from the window and the humming of the engines inspire me every time.
On car trips, on the other hand, I can sometimes hardly be patient. Every 10 minutes I ask my parents when we will finally arrive at our destination. The anticipation of what awaits us just makes me impatient. But I try to pass the time with games, singing, and funny conversations to make the car ride more pleasant.
Traveling is an exciting and educational experience for me. I get to know new places, people, and cultures, and I really enjoy discovering all of that. Whether in the air or on the road, I am always ready for new adventures and look forward to experiencing many more exciting trips with my family.
Frank: the travel dad and finance manager
My name is Frank and I come from the beautiful Ruhr area. In my mid-30s, I hold the unofficial title of finance manager of our family.
But besides my passion for numbers and finances, there are many other facets that make me who I am.
Golf gives me the opportunity to relax, be in the fresh air, and improve my skills on the golf course. I enjoy accepting the challenges of this sport and competing with other golfers.
Another hobby that excites me is snorkeling. The underwater world fascinates me and I love exploring colorful coral reefs and discovering the diversity of marine life. Snorkeling allows me to escape from everyday life and immerse myself in another world.
Another aspect that I particularly appreciate is the good weather in summer. When the sun shines and the temperatures rise, I am in my element. I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it’s golfing, relaxing by the sea, or exploring new places. The warm season brings a certain lightness and joy to my life. However, when winter arrives in Germany with its cold and darkness, I regularly feel drawn to sunnier climes. I flee from the cold and seek warmth in travel destinations that offer me the opportunity to escape the winter blues.
Exploring new places and cultures in a mild climate is a true pleasure for me and a way to escape the grayness of everyday life. With a balanced mix of sport, sun, and financial responsibility, I strive to make the most of every day and every season.